I have been having an aching/tight pain in my chest for 2 months now. I have gone to the doctor, who summed it up to 'anxiety', and had an ECG, which showed nothing. It is getting progressively worse, and hurts more when I laugh or cough, and at night when I sleep. I am a very calm collected and relaxed individual, who honestly is not holding on to much stress. Any suggestions here? I have been to my doctor twice, and she seems to be no help.

The description of your chest pain appears to be mostly benign and due to musculoskeletal issues.

Since you have already been examined by your doctor, and it has shown to be normal, cardiac causes can be ruled out.

The pain due to musculoskeletal causes, increase on specific movements or on direct pressure on the affected area as you have mentioned. Such pain can respond to ÂÂmedications like Ibuprofen 400 mg taken three times a day. This generally resolves within a week.

To rule out other causes, here is a description of other common causes of chest pain which you may find informative.
Â
Pneumonitis Or Pleuritis : Here the pain increases on deep breaths and is associated with symptoms like cough, expectoration of mucus or purulent sputum, etc.

GERD: This is a common condition that can cause people to worry that they have heart conditions. But ÂÂthis condition usually subsides after taking Antacids or proton pump inhibitors , like Omeprazole, or H2 Âblockers like Ranitidine.

DISCLAIMER:
"Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals.
For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our
medical experts page.
You may also visit our Chest Pain , for moderated patient to patient support and information.

The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician.
Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.